I-817 Application for Family Unity Benefits
Gives protection from removal and work authorisation to the spouse and children of someone who legalised under the 1986 amnesty. It is a small programme that continues to run for a defined group of family members.
- Fee
- $760
- Fee waiver
- Available (Form I-912)
- Who files
- Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of a legalised immigrant.
- Where to file
- By mail to the USCIS lockbox named in the instructions.
- Processing time
- 3.0 months (FY 2026 national median through June 30, 2026)
Usually filed with
Part of these processes
What changed in 2025 and 2026
- Family unity benefits carry work authorisation and protection from removal but no route to permanent residence.
Official page. https://www.uscis.gov/i-817. Download the form there, never from a third-party site; check the edition date and fee before filing.